Tech firm to create more than 100 jobs in Down
More than 100 jobs will be created after a US technology company said it was establishing a European centre in the North.
Software and consulting group First Derivatives already has an office in Newry, Co Down and is expanding its global operations. Its US-based subsidiary Market Research Partners (MRP) will introduce the jobs through a hub in the North.
Last week US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton hosted the US/Northern Ireland economic conference in Washington DC attended by major corporations from across the US.
US economic envoy to the North Declan Kelly said: “Once again, we see a company with US operations looking to Northern Ireland as a strategic location for global expansion because of all the advantages the region offers including location, low operating costs and access to a high-quality workforce.”
MRP is a Philadelphia-based company which will have an office located in Newry. The 106 posts will be in place by 2013 and will pay above the private sector average.
Invest NI provided an offer of £848,000 (€950,000) and will see MRP set up a global centre of excellence, generating more than £2.7m (€3m) annually in salaries.
Clients include Microsoft and Avnet Technology Solutions and a number of other global technology companies.
Executive director of MRP Kevin Cunningham said: “In recent years, we have been seeking to establish a base in Europe, which would facilitate growth in key European, Middle Eastern and African markets. Locating in Newry obviously allows us to further develop synergies with First Derivatives which acquired MRP in 2008.
“We also chose Newry because of the local talent pool and the opportunities which a competitive location like Northern Ireland offers us, as well as the support offered by Invest NI.”
